Ukraine supports UN's global ceasefire initiative

Ukraine has joined an international appeal expressing strong support for the UN Secretary-General's call for a global ceasefire amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

As the Permanent Mission of Ukraine to the UN reported on June 22, a total of 170 countries and observers joined the initiative. Russia is not on this list.

"We strongly support the appeal by the United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on 23 March 2020 for a global ceasefire," the joint appeal reads.

It is emphasized that the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic has profoundly impacted all three pillars of the United Nations - peace and security, development, and human rights.

"We express our deep concern for the continuation of hostilities in various parts of the world, particularly in the midst of the global health crisis, and their devastating on the most vulnerable — especially on women and children," the document emphasizes.

In this regard, the signatory countries strongly believe that multilateralism, the rule of law, dialogue and diplomacy for peace are fundamental in promoting and supporting efforts towards the peaceful settlement of disputes.

"As we approach the 75th anniversary of the signing of the UN Charter, we call on all actors to do the utmost to respond to the Secretary-General's appeal," the statement reads.

As reported, the Russian side previously tried to manipulate the UN Secretary-General's call for a global ceasefire. In particular, the Russian side said that this required lifting all international sanctions, including those imposed against Russia over the aggression in Donbas and the occupation of Crimea.

ol